What a treat is was today to open day 14 of the Kensington Wine Market Whisky Advent Calendar and find a bottle liquid gold from Ardbeg Distillery. Ardbeg is a juggernaut when comes to smoky, peaty Islay whiskies and this expression, Ardbeg An Oa fits that statement absolutely but is one of their more approachable expressions.
Arbeg An Oa is a combination of spirit matured in PX and bourbon and virgin oak barrels. It is then married in French oak vats. An Oa is bottled at 46.6% ABV. “An Oa” is named after the Mull of An Oa in the south west of Islay where Ardbeg Distillery is located. The Mull of An Oa provides some protection from the fierce Atlantic Storms. With An Oa’s well-roundedness the name fits.
Nose: Light smoke, creamy toffee, pine needles and banana.
Palate: Smooth, creamy, Terrys dark chocolate orange, herbs and tobacco smoke.
Finish: Long and robust cinnamon and nutmeg, more chocolate orange and distant smoke.
Rating: 9.4/10
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